How to Heat Indoor Plants

Report This Article

How to Heat Indoor Plants

Overview

Temperatures inside are often not perfect for the best plant growth. Whether you are starting seeds indoors or trying to keep a warm-loving house plant healthy, higher temperatures are necessary. Soil temperatures are usually cooler than the surrounding air temperature, and the roots are what need heat most when starting many summer plants from seed or growing tropical house plants. Providing the proper warmth ensures the plants grow strong and healthy.

Step 1

Set seedling trays on the seedling heat mat, available from garden stores and seed suppliers. Set most plants on the mat after they have germinated, except for peppers and other heat-loving vegetables that need bottom heat to germinate.

Step 2

Set the temperature on the mat to the recommended growing temperature on the seed packet. If no temperature is indicated, most seedlings do best at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Leave the mat on for 24 hours a day until the seedlings are ready to plant outside or into permanent pots.

Step 3

Use a seedling heat mat during the daytime for established house plants. Set it between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit or follow the recommendation on the plant tag if provided. Turn the heat mat off at night when plants require a lower temperature.

Step 4

Check the moisture level in the container every two to three days, as bottom heat dries the soil more quickly. Water as needed to maintain soil moisture.

Step 5

Place the plants away from areas that are not prone to drafts from windows or air vents. Cool air is drying and lowers the temperature around the plant. Grow seedlings under grow lights so the cool air emanating through window glass doesn't damage them.

Tips and Warnings

Avoid using heat lamps. These dry the plant and may burn the foliage. If you must use a heat lamp, leave it on for only two or three hours a day and mist the plant with water regularly to maintain humidity.

Things You'll Need

Heat mat

Grow lights

References

University of Minnesota Extension: Starting Seeds Indoors

Texas A&M Extension: Houseplants

Keywords:
seed starting, indoor plant care, heating plants inside

About this Author

Jenny Harrington is a freelance writer of more than five years' experience. Her work has appeared in "Dollar Stretcher" and various blogs. Previously, she owned her own business for four years, selling handmade items online, wholesale and via the crafts fair circuit. Her specialties are small business, crafting, decorating and gardening.